Investigation of part feeding problems in manual assembly line

Abstract

In a manual assembly line where different parts are consecutively assembled by workers along the conveyor line, line efficiency is dependent upon efficiency of part replenishment to the assembly line. If all parts can be served to the line on time, delay due to part interruption will not happen and jeopardize line efficiency. To avoid this adverse effect situation, a careful planning of feeding mechanism is a must and cannot overlook in a planning process. An optimum number of manpower, remaining buffer size, accurate feeding schedule, good logistic management, quick equipment maintenance and so on must be taken into account. Thus, this paper demonstrates a determination of optimum number of feeding worker, and feeding schedule based on different remaining buffer size. The equations formulated in this research and example of calculation will be delineated in details through a case study.